A Framework Convention for Nanotechnology? Policy Review

Abstract

Profs. Kenneth Abbott, Gary Marchant, and Douglas Sylvester argue that regulation of nanotechnology should be flexible and adaptive; innovative; international; and official. In order to meet these requirements, the authors call for negotiation of an international framework convention on nanotechnology as soon as possible. In response, Lynn Bergeson appreciates the inherent logic and appeal of their proposal, but questions whether the timing is right for the necessary parties to undertake the concerted effort needed to create such a convention. Similarly, David Rejeski applauds the idea, but wonders whether competitive pressures and government inaction leave any room for negotiation of such a convention or whether dramatic developments will be necessary to prompt action. On the other hand, Brent Blackwelder believes that the risks posed by nanotechnology are so great that there is no time to negotiate a convention and that a moratorium on nanotechnology should precede any other regulatory efforts.

Keywords: nanotechnology, regulation, international law, technology, international relations, soft law, framework, convention, environmental, trade, Gatt, WTO, tobacco convention